Winter is right around the corner, and you’ll want to prepare before the cold weather arrives. If you own a ranch in Texas, there are various things you can do to ensure the safety and comfort of you and your animals.

If you’re seeking ways to winterize your Texas ranch, we have some suggestions. When cold weather is extreme, it can endanger the safety of your property and animals. As a result, you should get ready and deal with the cold for the duration of the season.

Winterize Your Barn, Stables, & Outbuildings

It’s essential to take the necessary steps to prepare your property for the colder months ahead. Winterizing your barn, stables, and outbuildings should be on your list. These are the areas in your ranch that hold your most valuable assets.

Some things you must check are the following:

• Roofing: Make sure there aren’t any existing leaks. If there are, fix them as soon as possible because these problems will only worsen during the cold season. Additionally, check the shingles and make sure they’re in good condition.
• Walls: Inspect the walls for any cracks or holes. These need to be filled to keep the heat in and the cold out. It would help if you also insulated the barn since livestock is susceptible to freezing temperatures. You don’t want your animals to get stressed out due to the unusual weather changes.
• Doors & Windows: Check that all doors and windows if properly sealed. If not, caulk and weather-strip them accordingly.
• Internal Hazards:  Keep internal hazards away from your livestock reach. These include cords, ropes, chemicals, and sharp objects. You should also safe keep any electronics, wires, and other equipment. Furthermore, identify any fire hazards and remove them immediately.

Keep Your Livestock’s Food Stocked Up

The cold weather can limit foraging opportunities for your livestock. Therefore, stocking up is essential. Hay and grains are some examples you can save up on to supplement and simulate natural feeding.

Some tips to minimize waste during winter

• Use feeders to provide hay in small amounts.
• Feed your livestock in a dry place to prevent feed from getting wet and covered in mud
• Use up the feeds stored outside before using up the feed stored inside the barn.

Ensure your livestock has a constant source of clean water throughout the winter season.

Ensure You Have Enough Supplies & Equipment on Hand

During winter, many things are limited. You can’t go to the store quickly and buy what you need. So before the snow falls, keeping your supplies and much-needed equipment on hand and ready is best. It’s best to prepare for the unknown, especially during this season. 

Here are some of the things that you must check:

• Sand and rock salt to break down ice buildup and eliminate slippery surfaces
• Medical supplies because you never know if you or your animals will get sick or injured
• Generators are handy if ever there’s a power outage

Experience Winter in Texas & Invest in a Texas Ranch Today

Making the right choice and being prepared will let you enjoy the winter season in Texas. Overall, it’s a great place to live and build your ranch. Contact us today, and we’ll give you the best advice on buying a real estate property in rural Texas.